What are the rights of victims of violent crime?

In Pennsylvania, victims of violent crime possess certain rights that are protected by law. Victims have the right to protection from further harm, the right to be informed when the perpetrator is released from prison or released on defendant will appear in court when required.">bail, and the right to be compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, or other financial losses. It is also their right to be informed of any hearing related to the perpetrator’s case, or to have a support person present at any proceedings related to the case. Victims have the right to submit an impact statement to the court describing the impact of the violent crime on their life. This statement can be read by the judge prior to the perpetrator’s sentencing. In addition, victims have the right to receive restitution from their perpetrator for any financial losses they incurred as a result of the crime. Victims also have the right to be informed of their perpetrator’s status in jail as well as any court hearings related to their perpetrator’s case. Victims can be kept up to date with notifications from the county’s Victim Witness Program or through the Pennsylvania Statewide Automated Victim Notification system. Finally, victims have the right to access counseling services or other supportive services that may help them cope with the trauma of the crime. Victim assistance programs are available to help victims access the resources and support necessary to help them heal and move forward.

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